Searching for a new position is a physically, mentally and emotionally consuming journey. Whether you are currently employed and looking for a better opportunity or you have left a previous position and need a new job, the hunt can require a considerable amount of time and energy. It can sometimes feel discouraging and draining.
How will you continue to stay motivated and energised? If you face burnout, how will you combat frustration and stress? We have listed a few tips below to help you be proactive and reactive to burnout throughout your journey.
Tame your negative self-talk
Unfortunately, it is easy to self-doubt, especially when the emotional side of job searching can be a rollercoaster. Whether it is the excitement of getting an interview or the anticipation of waiting to hear back, emotions will be constantly fluctuating. While on the ride, remind yourself that you are doing your best. If you don’t get the first job you apply for, that is perfectly normal, and it is crucial to remind yourself of that. It is easy to blame yourself when outcomes don’t match your expectations but keep assuring yourself that you will find a position that is right for you. It’s like dating, not every date you go on will be the right fit, it’s about finding your perfect match.
Keep a list of wins
As previously mentioned, job searching can easily become an emotional rollercoaster. It is paramount for your mental health to acknowledge that you are still accomplishing things in your life and working towards your goal.
Find a win every day. List other tasks that you can complete throughout the day. Whether it is updating your LinkedIn bio or attending a virtual conference. It could even be a task around the house. Completing a task, big or small, will give you a sense of accomplishment which is essential to avoiding burnout.
Surround yourself with success stories
Have you heard the saying ‘you are the company you keep’? That not only applies to your personal life, but professional life as well. Seeing the people around you succeed or hearing stories from successful people can inspire you to work hard and achieve your career goals. It is a trick that can help you maintain motivation. If those people can succeed, so can you!
Stick to a routine
Balancing the process with other responsibilities may also lead to becoming overwhelmed. Make a schedule and stick to it. Set aside time when you are most productive 3 times a week and dedicate it to your job hunt. Maintaining a schedule is a good way to compartmentalise the job search, helping you to avoid feeling stressed all day, every day. Don’t forget to schedule in your breaks!
Take breaks
Limit your job-hunting hours. Job hunting is tough, and it is important take the necessary steps to take care of yourself. Remember that it is okay to take a mental health day. Taking a break to avoid burn out also benefits your productivity and results. Without breaks, you will burn out more rapidly and that will reflect in your interviews.
The job search process takes time and dedication. However, if you over work or spend too much time on the processes, the search may become counterproductive. Remember that job searching is a marathon and not a sprint. Stay positive, take it one day at a time and take it easy on yourself. Although the job search process is unique to all individuals, the overarching journey is faced by the entirety of the job market, you aren’t alone!
Are you currently on the job search journey? Use our global network and proven expertise in the market to ease your burnout symptoms and land your next position.